This Funky Little Town In Arizona Is A True Hidden Gem
By Katie Lawrence|Published February 20, 2019
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
What do gold mines, golf courses with one single hole, and a 100-year-old saloon have in common? They all can be found in the tiny mountain town of Crown King. See the quirkiness for yourself:
Hiding in the craggy Bradshaw Mountains, this unincorporated community has less than 150 residents. Once a successful gold mining mecca, tourism has been the town's primary source of income since the 1950s.
Crown King Saloon is one of the only buildings still standing, an impressive feat considering it dates back more than 100 years. It's the city's center of activity, serving as a hotel, restaurant, and bar.
Stepping inside is like traveling through a portal back to the Old West. Locals are decked out in full cowboy attire, and bartenders slide sarsaparillas to thirsty patrons just like they did during the days of Bonnie & Clyde.
Be prepared to stay awhile and shoot the breeze with friendly natives. They definitely know how to tell a good story, and you'll leave with a better understanding of Crown King's history than you bargained for.
It might be a small town, but only the biggest flavors are served here. Big, juicy burgers so thick you'll have to unhinge your jaw and fries cooked to crispy perfection dominate the saloon's menu.
Nearby is the general store, whose architecture pays homage to small towns everywhere. Don't be surprised if you see horses tied to a hitching post outside, as that's simply how things are done in this town stuck in yesteryear.
Inside the store is Crown King's post office, which was established in 1888. It's still operational despite not seeing much activity coming or going, and its old-fashioned mailboxes and service window provide a hefty dose of nostalgia.
So what makes Crown King funky? Visit close to a holiday and you'll quickly find out. Events like "The World's Shortest Memorial Day Parade," the "Crown King One-Hole Golf Tournament," and the "Annual Fall Corn Hole Showdown," give the town a lighthearted vibe and give citizens something to laugh about.
Have you ever visited Crown King? What was your favorite thing about it? Are there any other offbeat towns in Arizona that everyone should check out? This is one of our favorites.
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